Cognitive decline refers to a gradual worsening of cognitive abilities like memory, reasoning, attention, language, problem solving skills over time. It is a part of the normal aging process, but can be accelerated by medical conditions like Alzheimer's disease or brain injury.
As we grow older, changes occur in the brain leading to some decline in mental sharpness. The brain shrinks slightly, neuron connections may get damaged, neurotransmitter levels reduce, and blood flow decreases. These biological changes manifest as difficulties in:
The onset and pace of decline varies widely between individuals. Genetics, lifestyle, education levels and health issues play a major role.
Some tips to possibly delay the decline include:
If you notice signs of accelerated cognitive decline like repeatably forgetting plans or struggling with familiar tasks, I recommend getting evaluated by a doctor. Early intervention can help identify and manage reversible causes like medication side effects, sleep apnea, depression etc. Your doctor may suggest supplements like Hormone Health Clinic or refer you to a neuropsychologist for cognitive assessment tests. Make use of resources available to support your cognitive health and preserve independence.